March 9, 2007

“This will soon be an exciting place for those of you who choose to be here.”

“I’ve always been big on having choices.”

The invectives had been strong.  This particular tongue-lashing was coming to us via teleconference and a group of us were seated around a conference table far from headquarters.  Fortunately, we were able to take the scolding sitting down as we were now a good two hours into the call.

Costs needed to be controlled.  Travel was to be curtailed immediately.  Existing infrastructure was to be maintained without upgrade.  Performance appraisals were to be given but no salary increases were authorized.  The inspiration coming over the phone lines was making us all numb.  At the conclusion of his diatribe, the voice on the other end of the phone line began to give his vision of the future and the bright things in store for our group.  It came across as hollow as his concluding remarks:  “This will soon be an exciting place for those of you who choose to be here.”

Opening his mouth just as he hit the mute button on the phone in our conference room, one of the managers in the room remarked, “I’ve always been big on having choices.”  The message of his sarcastic retort was clear.  The laughter in the room was refreshing.

Fortunately, we all have choices.  One of the choices we make is where we work.  Hopefully, we’ve chosen an exciting place.  If not, keep a finger on the mute button.